The aim of the Go Holiday news blog is to provide daily UK and Worldwide holiday, tourism and travel news, information and comment for consumers and providers.

Tuesday, 8 November 2016

World Tourism reaches 956 million international travellers

#DESTINATIONS around the world welcomed 956 million international tourists between January and September 2016, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. This is 34 million more than in the same period of 2015, a 4% increase.

Demand for international tourism remained robust in the first nine months of 2016, though growing at a somewhat more moderate pace. After a strong start of the year, growth was slower in the second quarter of 2016 to pick up again in the third quarter of the year. While most destinations report encouraging results, others continue to struggle with the impact of negative events, either in their country or in their region.

“Tourism is one of the most resilient and fastest-growing economic sectors but it is also very sensitive to risks, both actual and perceived. ” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

“No destination is immune to risks. We need to increase cooperation in addressing these global threats, namely those related to safety and security. And we need to make tourism an integral part of emergency planning and response”, added Mr. Rifai ahead of the Ministerial Meeting on Safe, Secure and Seamless Travel to be held at the #WorldTravelMarket in London on 9 November.